Oklahoma prohbits distracted driving; texting and cell phone use may be penalized.

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Legal Change as of 2015: In May 2015, Oklahama became the 46th state to ban texting while driving. The law, which goes into effect on November 1, 2015, prohibits texting while operating a motor vehicle and includes a $100 fine for offenders.

Prior to November 1, 2015, although Oklahoma did not specifically prohibit cell phone
use or texting while driving, there is a statewide prohibition against
distracted driving. The law references distracted driving as follows:

"The operator of every vehicle, while driving, shall
devote their full time and attention to such driving." "No law
enforcement officer shall issue a citation under this section unless the law
enforcement officer observes that the operator of the vehicle is involved in an
accident or observes the operator of the vehicle driving in such a manner that
poses an articulable danger to other persons on the roadway that is not
otherwise specified in statute."

In other words, a driver will not be pulled over and
ticketed for text messaging or using a cell phone unless the officer observes
that the driver is posing a safety threat to others.

Texting Laws

Novice drivers in Oklahoma - drivers with permits or
graduated licenses -- risk suspension or loss of license if they text or use a
handheld cell phone.